The Daily Star quotes Joyner as saying that her recent plotlines have been "full-on", adding that she told a friend: "The rest of this year is going to be even more dramatic, because the Brannings have got some amazing stuff coming up."

The publication also claims that the actress is keen "to spend some quality time with [her] family".

Joyner is said to have already agreed a return to EastEnders and her character will not be killed off.

An EastEnders spokesperson said on Monday night (April 30) that Joyner "will be taking a break from filming in 2013 but will definitely return".